Cape Town SUP

Not the Cape Town Cycle Race

2017-03-24T06:29:00.000+02:00

I haven't been on a SUP or surfboard since 13 Feb 2017, my birthday - and that was in Paternoster. The reason for that is simply because I've been training all out for my virgin Cape Town Cycle Tour (previously known as the Argus) at every opportunity. I started training in November already but decided the last month will be total dedication.

If you don't know what the Cape Town Cycle Tour is, it's a 107km cycle, held in March of each year, going around the Cape Peninsula. It's also the biggest timed cycle race in the world, 40 000 cyclist registered for the 2017 - so it's big.. apparently not the toughest race in the world but for a 1st timer like me... scary - and from some of the stories I've heard from other amateurs - can be brutal.

As luck would have it on the day of the race - gale force winds, veld fires and protest over some part of the routes and the race is cancelled! Major disappointment for everyone involved and I'm 'all dressed up and nowhere to go'. Downer - I've trained so hard, got all the energy gels and drinks and now I'll have to wait another year to cross a 100km cycle of my bucket list.

With the above in mind I search for another race to do, just so that I can at least put my 'cycle fitness' to the test. I come across the 'WACT Race' - Week after Cycle Tour - apparently there was quite a few people who had the same idea as me and the PPA (Pedal Power Association) decided to organise this 102km race in Malmesbury. I register immediately and make arrangements for the coming weekend to go race... and so the big day arrives Saturday 19 March 2017 - Race day in Malmesbury!

The race starts from the show grounds which is right next to the accommodation spot we booked via AirBnB. The weather forecast is for a hot day (36 degrees C) and some moderate wind. Race starts at 07h00 and I'm there by 06h00 to get my race number. I'm not seeded so I start right at the back, group W. At about 06h40 I move to the starting line up - nervous, exited - all at once. As I walk to the back of the grid I can't but help observe that most of the other cyclist looked like pro's - fancy bikes, with all the gear and accessories - and here I am with my old mountain bike, tekkies and brand new cycling shirt!

Continue to read the rest of my adventure here --->

Find Holiday or Business Accommdation Easily

2016-11-19T11:13:00.002+02:00

Ok, let's face it.. we all need a break sometime or another. Regardless of your circumstances you need to go holiday, but reality is we can't all afford to be jet-setters that travel the world.

For most of us a good old fashioned South African Holiday does just fine. We want to go to the beach, go camping or go explore some part of our beautiful country.

The one common thing that binds all of those places together is the fact that we need to find a place to sleep somewhere - be it a luxurious hotel, a cabin on a river somewhere, a B&B or just a Self Catering spot.
However, the issue is always to get the right place that suits all your needs, then once you find it you need to know if they have space for you for the dates you want. That normally means phone calls and follow up emails to a couple of places... waiting, hoping, wondering if you'll get lucky!

Well things just got easier, you can search for accommodation anywhere is South Africa by using this great Search (opens up the search facility in a new window) facility we found. You are able enter your destination and required dates and book straight away. It's also not just for holidays, you can also book your business trip accommodations at any place in South Africa.

If you need to book a flight and/or Car Hire to get to the lovely spot you just booked you can do this via our friends at Travelstart, where they have great specials on domestic flights.
--> Book Flights Here

How to use the search function:
1. In the WHERE? field type in the area name that must be searched for i.e. Cape Town or Sandton
2. Select the start dates for your stay.
3. Choose the number of nights for your stay.
4. Select the number of Adults (kids can be added when making the booking)
5. Select the number of rooms required.
6. Click on the SEARCH button.
7. Once you find a property to your liking, simply click on the 'view details' or 'book' button to view the property and then book it online.

People who work with Sharks: Dr Ryan Kempster

2016-10-24T06:50:00.003+02:00

Mossel Bay, June 2016: Dr Ryan Kempster is a shark biologist and founder of the non-profit organisation Support Our Sharks (SOS). He obtained his B.Sc. (2005) and M.Sc. (2007) in marine biology in the UK, and went on to complete a Ph.D. at the University of Western Australia (UWA) in the sensory biology of sharks. Dr Kempster recently spent a month with Oceans Research working on his shark deterrent project.

How did you end up in science and research?
I’ve always had an interest in animals and science, although, my path has changed quite a lot, which was dictated by how well I was doing in certain subjects. When I was younger, I wanted to be a vet, but didn’t quite get the grades needed. My college supervisor had a nephew studying marine biology so he threw it out to me as an idea. I ended up doing........ continue here --> http://capetownsup.com/all-cape-town/our-oceans/item/82-shark-people-dr-ryan-kempster

Fiona Ayerst: Underwater Photographer

2016-10-24T06:45:00.001+02:00

Mossel Bay, August 2016: Fiona Ayerst is a specialist stills underwater photographer. She’s also a writer, public speaker, tour guide and a passionate conservationist who speaks up for animal rights.

How did you get into underwater photography?
I have always been passionate about water and being immersed in it. I feel safe and happy in water. It is my ‘ go to’ place if I am ever stressed. As a child, I spent many holidays in the blue, warm Indian Ocean around Mombasa. My parents say I could swim before I could walk. I definitely preferred being in water from a very young age. I started photography as a hobby around 14 years ago, then in April 2007 I decided that I needed a career change. I was a litigation attorney with my own practice in Johannesburg at the time. I sold the files in my firm and decided instead to follow my passion for photography. Some may call this a ‘mid-life crisis’........

Continue reading here ----> http://capetownsup.com/all-cape-town/our-oceans/item/83-fiona-ayerst-photographer

Why LockRacks?

2016-09-28T03:43:00.002+02:00

One of my biggest issues with SUP / Surf travel by car has always been the roof-rack and straps to hold the boards down whilst you cruise from spot to spot. Even if it was just a Saturday morning and I was going down to beach for a quick paddle. I had to get the boards onto the car, then get the straps (untangle them 1st most of the time) and do the whole rig of getting the straps over, walking around the car to do so and then back. Then get the strap through the clamp (mission sometimes when the strap ends are frayed), then pull till it's tight and tie the loose ends down. Taking the boards down at the beach was easier but then coming home I had to do the same again to fasten the boards - with tired arms. Anyone who transports any type of board, canoe or kayak regularly will agree I'm sure.

Then I saw a couple of guys drive around town with these arm type things on the roof-rack that hold their board down. I googled it and and came across the LockRack Youtube channel, it looked like a good system and the reviews I read were all positive. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the system founder was a Saffa, from Durban - Brad Foster. I decided to get myself one to see if it will make my life easier.

Read the rest here: My LockRacks

The Cape Town SUP Rocket

2016-09-22T09:39:00.000+02:00

After doing a review on the ZealSurf Rocket, I decided that this is the board I want. I've had my VanHunks 9'6 for a while now, it's an older model - 2014 if I recall correctly - and whilst that is a good solid beginner / intermediate SUP Surf board I felt I wanted a more progressive board. The aim is to take my surfing up a notch.

I've always been impressed by the quality and finishing of the other ZealSurf boards I've seen eg. the Easy Glider ....... read the rest here > http://capetownsup.com/sup/surf/item/80-cape-town-sup-rocket

Hydrofoils for SUP Geeks...

2016-08-27T19:37:00.000+02:00

Every now and then there is a news flash on it, slowly but surely the word is getting out - some recon this is the next big thing, others skeptically look at it and shake their heads. 1st it was Laird Hamilton on a surfboard that made the surfing headlines and now more recently Kai Lenny on a SUP that had the social media networks buzzing....

Hydrofoils..... or just Foils for short.

But apart from the fact that it looks kinda weird floating above the water and it also looks like a mission to carry, I don't really know much about it. When Ian from ZealSurf let it drop that he is planning to build a locally designed Hydrofoil SUP I went round asking some questions.

CTS: What is a hydrofoil stand up board? find out here..

How to Choose the Right SUP Paddle

2016-08-15T07:51:00.000+02:00

I spoke to Tyran Cooper, the Brand Manager for Coreban at Xpression on the Beach in Muizenberg recently regarding SUP Paddles and here is what he had to say:

What makes a good beginner paddle for surfing, cruising & touring respectively?

When buying your new paddle, it is important to find the right paddle for your needs. Blade size and paddle length are the two main factors to consider..

Blade size is a key when choosing a paddle.[click here to read the rest of the story]

Women Who SUP: Melissa Volker

2016-08-10T04:51:00.001+02:00

This week we interview Blogger, Writer, Tweeter and SUP girl extraordinaire - Missy!

Name: Melissa Volker (for formal occasions and when I am in trouble with my Mom.) I have been called Missy since I can remember.

Age: Hahahaha. You're kidding right? On a public platform? I am a smidge north of forty. I'll just leave that there.

Read the rest here ----> Missy Volker

Playing around in the surf with my SUP & GoPro.

2016-08-06T11:16:00.003+02:00

Playing around in the surf with my SUP & GoPro. This was at Surfers Corner with a cleanish 2ft swell...

Board: VanHunks 9'6 Impi

Women who SUP: Caroline Hossack

2016-08-06T07:39:00.000+02:00

a Short interview with my long time friend, super woman and all round water girl. She can do it all, believe me - from surfing, kitesurfing, skateboarding, biking & art work - I've seen her do it all and had the privilege of sharing a couple of waves with her on numerous occasions.....

So here we go: [Read the rest here]Caroline Hossack

Women who SUP: Brigette van Aswegen

2016-07-22T06:26:00.001+02:00

Name: Brigette van Aswegen

Read the full inerview here ---> Women who SUP.

Who is Jon Cole?

2016-07-06T04:50:00.000+02:00

Cape Town SUP caught up with Jon Cole, the shaper behind Zeal Surf who innovates and creates some of the best SUP & surfboards on the market...

Here is how that went down...

1. Ok... so tell us about who you are and what do you do?
I work in the timber construction industry , but have also worked with yachts, in wood and fibreglass. I am a believer in the Messiah, and the path guided by the Holy Spirit. I have two awesome young sons, who are also learning to surf.

2. What is your job @ zeal surf?
At Zeal I'm assisting with design and CAD shaping...... read the full interview here --> Jon Cole

You should Come Wine With Us!

2016-06-21T18:35:00.002+02:00

If you've never heard of Come Wine With Us - where have you been?

Come Wine With Us is essentially a well organised social event that brings together top quality food & wine at selected locations. Did I mention that the wine and food is top quality!? Cuase that it is...

We've been to a couple of their events and it never disappoints.... get the full story here ---> CWWU

Insider Scoop: The Zeal Surf Rocket

2016-06-12T08:15:00.000+02:00

Zeal Surf recently released their Rocket SUP Surf, here is the low down of that board:

The Rocket is basically a cut off rectangular "slate" or slab, this kind of SUP is a Mini-Sims inspired concept BUT....

....you can read the rest of the story here: Zeal Surf Rocket.

Get R500 travel credit via AirBnB

2016-06-06T13:50:00.001+02:00

If you've heard about AirBnB and know what it' all about then you can simply register via our link get a FREE R500 travel credit voucher ---> http://bit.ly/ACTABB

If not... read on:

Looking for a weekend break or school holiday oasis? Ever thought of trying Airbnb?

AirBnB is a Community Built on Sharing, they began in 2008 when two designers who had space to share hosted three travellers looking for a place to stay. This simple concept grew so quickly that this has become a world wide business model used by travellers & accommodation establishments alike.

It's easy to use, millions of hosts and travellers simply create a free Airbnb account. The hosts advertises their room / apartment or unit and the traveller simply book their accommodation anywhere in the world.

A recent article by Traveller24 explained how booking with Airbnb can in most cases secure you a better deal than most hotels and B&B's in an area.

The following is quoted directly from their website and the link to the whole article is at the bottom:

Cape Town –

Cape Town’s Airbnb offering is one of the biggest in SA, but because the demand is so big in the Mother City, the housing options are still relatively expensive.

You’ll struggle to find a good spot for under R1 200 a night, for an entire apartment or house. But because the price range is so vast, there are plenty of great bargains in Cape Town too - you don’t have to pay big money to have a value-for-money stay.

Compared to hotel prices in the rest of Africa, Cape Town hotel prices are also relatively cheap.
Mother City guests would pay around R1 448 per night for a hotel stay, according to a 2015 survey.

So, depending on what travellers are after, both Airbnb and hotels or B&B can offer different services
and perks for about the same price.

Some home owners in more exclusive areas like Clifton, Camps Bay and Llandudno, however, have the power to offer guests incredible views for much less that they’d pay for a night in an exclusive hotel in the area, like Twelve Apostles, for example.

It is in these exclusive suburbs where Airbnb may trump hotels and B&Bs in terms of value for money.

(http://traveller24.news24.com/TravelPlanning/airbnb-cape-town-vs-johannesburg-vs-the-world-20160331)

The service is extremely easy to use, and you can book, confirm and pay through the site. Airbnb verifies personal profiles and also provides a 24/7 customer support team to assist you when needed.

To try it out, and for a FREE R500 travel credit voucher, register through our link ---> http://bit.ly/ACTABB

The Great Hint Hunt Escape

2016-05-26T07:43:00.001+02:00

If you are ever stuck for something to do in good 'ole Cape Town, you simply have to go try this - Hint Hunt.

It a simple concept, you and a few of your mates have to solve a murder mystery and escape from a room. But don't let the simplicity of the concept fool you - this is fun and you need to be able to 2 and 2 together so to speak.

Read about the rest of our adventure here: Hint Hunters

SUP Review: Why the Zeal Surf Easy Gliders are Sexy

2016-05-11T07:27:00.002+02:00

Board: Zeal Surf Easy Glider
Dimensions: 9.6' X 30 X 3.9
Volume: 131L
Shaper: Jon Cole

When Ian from Zeal Surf dropped this board off, as always the 1st thing I did was to pick up the board and test the weight - I liked it - it was somewhere between being light to medium weight for a board this size. It was sturdy yet elegant, you could sense this is a well rounded board designed for fun........

Read the full story: Cape Town SUP tests and reviews the Zeal Surf Easy Glider sup.

Why Man Made Waves & Foil Sups will make you question everything

2016-05-05T18:10:00.000+02:00

Over this last week or so 2 very interesting social media posts hit the networks that will literally change the game as far as I'm concerned....

1) Kelly Slater's wave pool:Is that the future of surfing?

2) Kai Lenny on a Foil SUP: So the questions are - will hydrofoils take over the market eventually and make the standard SUP downwind board obsolete? When will someone adapt the foil and go surfing with it?

Read the full article here -> Why Man Made Waves & Foil Sups will make you question everything

The Unconventional Guide to Kagga Kamma

2016-05-04T07:26:00.000+02:00

Our experience of a recent stay at Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve, all the fun and excitement in one shot.

Read all about the Reserve, the rock art and sunsets.....

Insider Interviews: Zeal Surf

2016-04-19T21:48:00.001+02:00

Cape Town SUP caught up with Ian Wolmerans, the founder and developer behind the unique brand of Stand Up Paddle boards from Zeal Surf. Read the full story here... http://bit.ly/ctszeal

SUP Trotters: A Social Network Community

2016-04-13T09:56:00.001+02:00

Awhile ago we came across SUP Trotters. They are a social network community for Stand Up Paddlers i.e. something like a FaceBook type website for SUP guys and girls.

Get the full review on our post here: SUP Trotters: A Social Network Community

The Impi Challenge

2016-04-10T11:24:00.001+02:00

Attempting all the fun and games of running the impi challenge in Stellenbosch, read all about the mud, sweat and beers during this amazing 12km, 20 obstacle course race.

Click link below to read the full story:
http://bit.ly/ctsimpi

SUP Surfing: Rules

2016-04-07T13:42:00.000+02:00

Like anywhere else, there are 'rules of the road' in the line up. A certain etiquette that needs to be followed to ensure that peace reigns, rules that apply regardless of whether you are an experienced pro or absolute beginner, in big or small waves... Get all the details here -- > http://bit.ly/ctsrule

The 2016 Twitter Blanket Drive

2016-04-04T05:26:00.000+02:00

Read all about the #TwitterBlanketDrive on our blog: http://bit.ly/ctstbd2016 Please support @TBDAfrica #tbd2016.